In the 2020 NBA Draft, the Boston Celtics made a decision that continues to echo within the franchise as a moment of missed opportunity. By trading away the No. 30 pick in exchange for salary relief, the Celtics passed on selecting Desmond Bane, a player who has since established himself as one of the league’s top shooting guards through his combination of scoring and defense.
Why Boston Passed on Desmond Bane
The Celtics’ trade involved sending their late first-round draft pick along with forward Enes Freedom’s salary to the Memphis Grizzlies. This move was driven by a need to clear cap space and manage the roster’s composition, but it allowed Memphis to use the pick on Bane. Despite being slightly smaller in size than typical shooting guards, Bane has proven his worth as a strong two-way player, consistently impacting games with his accurate shooting and defensive hustle. At the time, Boston’s front office apparently did not anticipate that the No. 30 selection would yield a player who could one day generate significant trade value.
Reflection on the Trade’s Legacy
Over time, this trade has become a source of regret among Celtics fans and analysts alike. ESPN’s Zach Kram commented on the decision’s rationale:
This was a reasonable move at the time: The Celtics didn’t have room on their roster for another young player, and trading Bane’s draft rights allowed them to shed Enes Freedom’s salary.
His assessment highlights how choices that seem sensible in the immediate context can develop unforeseen consequences as players grow and prove their potential. While the Celtics have enjoyed notable successes since then, including capturing the 2024 NBA title, the lingering question remains about how Bane’s presence might have elevated the team’s lineup.
Desmond Bane’s Development and Influence on the NBA
Desmond Bane’s rise from the 30th pick to a valuable NBA contributor showcases his growth as a sharpshooter with a career three-point shooting rate near 41%, alongside a reputation as a reliable defender. This summer’s trade sending Bane to the Orlando Magic is expected to significantly strengthen their backcourt by improving outside shooting and scoring. Bane’s journey serves as both an individual success story and a testament to how draft-day decisions can reshape the competitive landscape.
The Complexities of Draft Decisions and Future Prospects for Boston
Though the Celtics have thrived in recent seasons, including with players like Derrick White, the franchise confronts a reality that a talent like Bane could have added a critical dimension to their championship pursuits. His trajectory underscores the importance of recognizing potential in every draft selection, even those late in the first round. As the Celtics prepare for upcoming drafts, the memory of what might have been with Bane’s pick prompts a heightened awareness of talent evaluation’s delicate balance and the impact such decisions have on a team’s long-term success.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What is Desmond Bane’s real name?
A. Desmond Michael Bane, born on June 25, 1998, is a professional basketball player from the United States. He plays for the Orlando Magic in the NBA. Before joining the NBA, he played college basketball with the TCU Horned Frogs.